August 22, 2008—Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick recently signed into law three energy-related bills that will cut the emissions of greenhouse gases within the state, promote advanced biofuels, and support the growth of the clean energy technology industry, according to analysis by the US Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE).
The Global Warming Solutions Act requires a reduction of greenhouse gas emissions in the state to 10%-25% below 1990 levels by 2020 and to 80% below 1990 levels by 2050. Under the act, the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection will carry the burdens of determining the baseline level of emissions in 1990 and creating a plan to meet the future emissions limits, including the establishment of interim limits for 2030 and 2040.
The Clean Energy Biofuels Act exempts cellulosic ethanol from the state’s gasoline tax in certain cases, and requires all diesel motor fuels and all No. 2 fuel oil sold for heating to include at least 2% “substitute fuel” by July 2010.
The Green Jobs Act will support the growth of a clean energy technology industry within the state, backed by $68 million in funding over 5 years.
